How Much Spending Money for 1 Week Holiday?
One of the most common questions travellers ask is: how much spending money do I actually need for a 1-week holiday?
The answer depends on your destination, travel style, and what you plan to do — but this guide gives you realistic UK-based estimates so you can budget with confidence.
Want to budget your trip properly? Use our calculator
QUICK ANSWER
For a 1-week holiday, most UK travellers need between £150 and £500 per person for spending money, depending on destination and lifestyle.
AVERAGE SPENDING MONEY PER DAY
| Travel Style | Daily Spend | Weekly Total |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | £20 – £30 | £140 – £210 |
| Mid-range | £30 – £60 | £210 – £420 |
| Premium | £60 – £100+ | £420 – £700+ |
👉 This usually covers food, drinks, local transport, and small activities.
SPENDING MONEY BY DESTINATION
Spain / Portugal
- £30 – £60 per day
- Affordable food and drinks
Greece
- £40 – £70 per day
- Slightly higher in tourist areas
Dubai
- £60 – £100+ per day
- Higher costs for food and activities
UK Staycation
- £40 – £80 per day
- Dining and attractions can be expensiv
WHAT DOES SPENDING MONEY COVER?
Typically includes:
- Food and drinks
- Snacks and coffees
- Local transport
- Attractions and activities
- Small purchases and souvenirs
👉 It does NOT usually include flights or accommodation.
HIDDEN COSTS TO CONSIDER
Many travellers underestimate these:
- Tourist taxes
- Tips and service charges
- Drinks and nightlife
- Excursions
- Currency exchange fees
👉 These can add £50–£150+ over a week.
REALISTIC EXAMPLE (1 WEEK HOLIDAY)
Typical mid-range traveller:
- Food: £200
- Drinks: £100
- Activities: £80
👉 Total: £380 per person
HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON HOLIDAY
- Eat away from tourist areas
- Set a daily budget
- Use public transport
- Book activities in advance
- Avoid unnecessary fees
IS £500 ENOUGH FOR A WEEK HOLIDAY?
For most destinations, £500 is more than enough for spending money if flights and accommodation are already paid.
👉 For budget travellers, £200–£300 is often sufficient
Planning a longer trip? See our guide on spending money for a 2-week holiday
RELATED GUIDES
👉 See full travel breakdown: Travel Costs in the UK (2026 Guide)
👉 Plan your budget: Total Cost of a Holiday in the UK (2026 Guide)
👉 Compare destinations: Cost of a Holiday to Spain from the UK
👉 Save money: Cost of Travel Extras in the UK